Canada
Sporting
Large
21–24 in
55–80 lbs
10–12 years
Meet the Labrador Retriever
Labradors are friendly, outgoing, and always eager to please. Their playful personality and love for people make them excellent family pets. They are highly trainable and excel in many roles including service dogs, therapy dogs, and search & rescue.
Where It All Began
Labradors originated in Newfoundland, Canada in the 1800s, where they were bred to help fishermen retrieve nets and catch that escaped from fishing lines. Their strong swimming ability and soft mouth made them excellent retrievers on land and in water.
Personality
🏃 An Active Lifestyle
Labs are energetic dogs that love outdoor activities and mental stimulation.
- ✓ 60-120 min of exercise daily
- ✓ Enjoys swimming & fetch
- ✓ Loves training & learning new things
- ✓ Needs a job or purpose
✂ Grooming Needs
Short, dense coat that is easy to maintain.
- ✓ Brush 1-2 times per week
- ✓ Bath every 6-8 weeks
- ✓ Heavy seasonal shedding
- ✓ Trim nails regularly
❤ Keeping Healthy
Generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain conditions. Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and exercise are essential.
- • Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- • Exercise-Induced Collapse
- • Ear Infections
$ Cost of Ownership
Owning a Labrador is a moderate investment.
Purchase Price: $800-$2,500+
Monthly Cost: $70-$150
First Year Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Lifetime Cost: $9,000 - $15,000
👍 Pros
- Friendly & great with families
- Highly intelligent & trainable
- Loyal & devoted companions
- Versatile working dog
- Good with other pets
👎 Cons
- High energy & needs exercise
- Sheds a lot
- Can be food motivated
- Prone to weight gain
- Separation anxiety possible
💡 Did You Know?
Labrador Retrievers have been the #1 most popular dog breed in the United States for over 30 years!
Compare Labrador Retriever
See how the Labrador Retriever stacks up against other breeds to find your perfect match.
